James Beattie joins Stoke City

Stoke have bolstered their striking options with the signing of James Beattie from Sheffield United for a fee that could rise to £3.5 million.

Back in the big time: former Everton striker James Beattie has returned to the Premier League Photo: PA

By Austin Peters

10:56PM GMT 12 Jan 2009

The 30-year-old, who has previously played in the top flight with Southampton and Everton, has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at the Britannia Stadium.

Manager Tony Pulis said: "James is a player who has an absolutely phenomenal goal-scoring record, and I am delighted to have him here."

Beattie is the second player to join Stoke, who currently sit one place and one point above the relegation zone, in the January transfer window – with winger Matthew Etherington having moved from West Ham last week.

Beattie, capped five times by England, enjoyed a productive 18 months at Bramall Lane – scoring 34 goals in 65 appearances, including 12 this season.

Pulis continued: "He has averaged more than a goal every other game for Sheffield and he has a proven record of scoring in the top flight. He is someone I have admired for a very, very long time.